What went wrong? Therapists’ reflections on their role in premature termination

Abstract

The present study used Consensual Qualitative Research methodology to explore how experienced therapists understand and learn from impactful cases of premature termination. Eleven board certified psychologists were interviewed regarding a former client who left treatment prematurely. Participants were asked to reflect on client and therapist factors that may have contributed to premature termination, and on how the termination affected their work and professional development. Results indicated that therapist reactions and mistakes may contribute to the risk of premature termination, and that therapists may experience complex and lasting personal reactions to such outcomes. While they may face considerable uncertainty, therapists can learn valuable lessons by reflecting on departed clients. Implications for research and practice are discussed.